Malaria and acute kidney injury

Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitos, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. It affects 212 million worldwide, causing death in up to 303,000 children annually. In the USA, up to 1700 people are affected yearly. Although the prevalence in developed countries is less than in developing countries, travelers from low transmission areas, and those from endemic areas who later return, are very susceptible to malaria and its complications. Severe malaria can cause significant multiorgan dysfunction including acute kidney injury (AKI). The pathogenesis is not clearly understood but proposed mechanisms include acute tubular necrosis (ATN) due to impediments in renal microcirculation, infection-triggered proinflammatory reactions within the kidney, and metabolic disturbances. Providers must consider malarial infection in cases of AKI in someone with a travel history, as early recognition and treatment are crucial to improving outcomes. This article will review malaria-induced AKI in order to provide a better understanding of this infection’s effect on the kidneys.